By RN Construction – Trex Platinum Pro Installer & Two-Time Stellar Service Award Winner | www.yourcustomdeck.com
When building a deck in Michigan, especially in wooded or humid areas, one of the biggest threats to your investment is insect damage. Termites, carpenter ants, and wood-boring beetles can turn a beautiful wood deck into a costly repair job. That’s why many homeowners and commercial property managers in Mid-Michigan are turning to composite decking.
At RN Construction, we’re trusted Trex deck builders in Michigan, and we’ve seen firsthand how composite decks outperform natural wood when it comes to resisting insect infestations.
How Insects Damage Wood Decks in Michigan
Insects are a common problem for wood decks across Michigan, especially in rural or heavily wooded areas like Durand, Owosso, and the surrounding counties. Common culprits include:
- Termites – These pests feed on the cellulose in wood, tunneling through support beams and joists.
- Carpenter Ants – They don’t eat wood, but they chew through it to create nests, weakening the structure over time.
- Wood-Boring Beetles – Their larvae burrow deep into the wood, often undetected until serious internal damage has already occurred.
Why Composite Decking Is a Smarter Choice
As a Durand deck contractor and Platinum Pro Trex Installer, we recommend composite decking to our clients for long-term peace of mind. Here’s why:
- Insect-Resistant – Composite boards from brands like Trex contain minimal cellulose and high-density recycled plastic, making them unattractive to pests.
- No Nutritional Value for Pests – Termites and beetles can’t feed on the synthetic materials, and the dense construction makes chewing or nesting nearly impossible.
- Reduced Risk of Hidden Damage – Unlike natural wood, composite decking won’t harbor pests inside the boards, so you’re less likely to face surprise repairs.
🛡️ Bonus: Trex composite decking is backed by warranties that include protection from termite and insect damage.
Long-Term Value for Michigan Property Owners
Composite decking isn’t just about pest control — it offers big benefits for long-term maintenance and durability:
- Low Maintenance – No annual staining, sealing, or painting. Just simple cleanings to keep your deck looking great.
- Weather Resistant – Perfect for Michigan’s freeze-thaw cycles and humidity. Composite won’t rot, warp, or splinter like wood.
- Eco-Friendly – Trex uses over 95% recycled materials, making your new deck a sustainable investment.
Composite vs. Wood Decking at a Glance
| Feature | Composite Decking (e.g., Trex) | Natural Wood Decking |
|---|---|---|
| Insect Resistance | ✅ High | ❌ Low |
| Maintenance | ✅ Low | ❌ High |
| Weather Resistance | ✅ High | ⚠️ Moderate to Low |
| Longevity | ✅ 25+ years | ⚠️ 10–15 years |
| Eco-Friendly | ✅ Yes (recycled materials) | ⚠️ Sometimes |
Conclusion: Choose the Right Deck Builder in Mid-Michigan
If you’re planning to build a deck in Michigan, protect your investment with materials that stand the test of time — and pests. At RN Construction, we specialize in insect-resistant composite decks, proudly serving Durand, Lansing, Flint, and the surrounding areas.
📞 Call us today or visit www.yourcustomdeck.com to schedule your free consultation with Michigan’s trusted Trex Pro Platinum Installers.
